Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

NetHack VS Merchant RPG

Compare NetHack VS Merchant RPG and see what are their differences

NetHack logo NetHack

NetHack is a single player dungeon exploration game that runs on a wide variety of computer...

Merchant RPG logo Merchant RPG

Fantasy RPG and shopkeeper tycoon game.
  • NetHack Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-04-19
  • Merchant RPG Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-05-03

NetHack features and specs

  • Replayability
    NetHack offers immense replayability due to its procedurally generated levels, ensuring that no two runs are exactly the same. Players can experiment with different character classes, items, and strategies to discover new aspects of the game.
  • Depth and Complexity
    The game is renowned for its deep and intricate mechanics. It requires players to think critically and plan their moves, taking into account a wide variety of factors such as item properties, monster behaviors, and environmental hazards.
  • Community and Legacy
    Since its release in 1987, NetHack has built a strong, dedicated community that contributes to its development and fosters a collaborative learning environment. Extensive guides and forums are available to help players navigate the game's complexities.
  • Free and Open Source
    NetHack is completely free to play and its source code is available to the public. This openness has allowed for numerous porting and modification opportunities, making it accessible on multiple platforms.
  • Humor and Easter Eggs
    The game is filled with a unique sense of humor and numerous Easter eggs, including references to popular culture, literature, and mythology. These touches add an extra layer of enjoyment for players who appreciate such nuances.

Possible disadvantages of NetHack

  • Steep Learning Curve
    NetHack can be difficult for new players to pick up due to its intricate mechanics and lack of in-game tutorials. Beginners might find themselves overwhelmed by the depth of the game.
  • Graphics and Interface
    The game employs very basic ASCII graphics which can be off-putting for players accustomed to more modern and visually appealing games. Its text-based interface may also appear dated and cumbersome.
  • Permadeath
    NetHack features permanent character death, meaning that once a player dies, they must start over from the beginning. While this adds to the game's challenge, it can be frustrating for players who dislike losing all their progress.
  • Time-Consuming
    Due to its complex nature and the required investment in learning its mechanics, NetHack can be very time-consuming. Players may need to dedicate significant amounts of time to see meaningful progress.
  • Retro Appeal
    The retro style and classic gameplay may not appeal to everyone, especially younger gamers or those who prefer modern design and more streamlined experiences.

Merchant RPG features and specs

  • Strategic Depth
    Merchant RPG offers a variety of strategic elements, such as crafting, trading, and resource management, providing players with a rich, intricate gameplay experience.
  • Engaging Crafting System
    The game features a detailed crafting system where players can create a wide range of items, enhancing engagement and allowing for customization.
  • Progressive Economy
    Merchant RPG has a dynamic in-game economy that evolves with player actions, adding an extra layer of realism and challenge to the gameplay.
  • Regular Updates
    The developers frequently update the game, introducing new features, balance changes, and events to keep the content fresh and exciting.
  • Community Interaction
    A robust community of players provides opportunities for interaction and exchange of strategies, fostering a collaborative gaming environment.

Possible disadvantages of Merchant RPG

  • Slow Progression
    The game can sometimes feel slow-paced, especially for players not willing to invest much time into grinding, which might be discouraging for casual players.
  • Complexity
    The intricate game mechanics may overwhelm new players, requiring a steep learning curve to fully understand all aspects of gameplay.
  • Repetitive Tasks
    Some players may find the routine of gathering materials and crafting goods repetitive, which can impact long-term engagement.
  • In-Game Purchases
    Some features or items in Merchant RPG may be locked behind paywalls or require premium currency, which could detract from the experience for those unwilling to spend money.
  • Limited Graphics
    The game’s visual design is relatively simple and might not appeal to players who prioritize high-end graphics in their gaming experience.

Analysis of NetHack

Overall verdict

  • NetHack is highly regarded by fans of traditional roguelikes and is frequently praised for being one of the best examples of the genre. However, its ASCII graphics and difficulty may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who are not accustomed to retro-style gaming.

Why this product is good

  • NetHack is considered a classic in the roguelike genre, known for its deep gameplay mechanics, high replayability, and the vast variety of interactions possible within its richly detailed ASCII world. Players appreciate its steep learning curve and the sense of accomplishment from mastering its challenges.

Recommended for

  • Fans of traditional roguelikes
  • Gamers who enjoy challenging gameplay
  • Players interested in open-ended gameplay with numerous ways to solve problems
  • Enthusiasts of retro and text-based games
  • Those who appreciate games with a high degree of replayability

NetHack videos

NETHACK: The dev team thinks of everything

More videos:

  • Review - NetHack is the Best Hack!

Merchant RPG videos

Merchant Rpg - Basics #1

More videos:

  • Review - Book of Travels - Open World Sandbox Merchant RPG

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to NetHack and Merchant RPG)
Action
79 79%
21% 21
Games
76 76%
24% 24
Adventure
100 100%
0% 0
Simulation
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, NetHack seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 22 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

NetHack mentions (22)

  • First version of nethack with a bestiary?
    Prior to 3.1.x the dat subdirectory didn't exist yet but data.base was present somewhere, possibly in the src subdirectory instead. I don't know whether it goes as far back as hack 1.x or even nethack 2.x. The source code for a bunch of old versions is present at https://nethackwiki.com/ but I'm not sure whether the data files are all there too. The source code for the most recent released version (3.6.7) is... Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Is there a discord?
    I am not sure what extra benefits the Steam version has, but the game is available for free either as download on nethack.org, or to play online at something like alt.org/nethack or hardfought.org. Source: about 2 years ago
  • REMINDER: You only need two people to play D&D
    You don't even need two people to play D&D, Nethack is great! Source: about 2 years ago
  • I just bought factorio
    I've always been fond of the last quote on nethack.org. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Went to see the video game exhibit at the NY MOMA
    It was discussed here last fall, when the home page for nethack.org was updated to mention it. The blurb includes a few other tiny screen shots and says the exhibit is scheduled to be open until mid-July. Source: over 2 years ago
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Merchant RPG mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of Merchant RPG yet. Tracking of Merchant RPG recommendations started around Apr 2022.

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